The Listeners: A History of Wiretapping in the United States
The Listeners by Brian Hochman traces the history of wiretapping and electronic eavesdropping in the United States, from Civil War telegraph interception through government, police, and business surveillance. Its focus on privacy, national security, and criminal investigation suits readers seeking historical context rather than a technical guide.
At a glance
- Covers wiretapping from early telegraph interception through modern electronic monitoring.
- Follows surveillance across military campaigns, law enforcement, private businesses, and government programs.
- Connects prominent eavesdropping controversies with debates about privacy, national security, and civil liberties.
Reference price: $36.00
Price checked: Nov 14, 2026
View offerAhead of Black FridayExplore the selectionPros and cons
Pros
- Broad historical scope links surveillance practices with changing public debates about privacy and civil liberties.
- The 368-page length offers room to trace developments across multiple eras and institutions.
Technical specifications
8 specifications| Publisher | Harvard University Press |
|---|---|
| Publication date | March 22, 2022 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 368 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 0674249283 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0674249288 |
| Weight listed | 1.6 pounds |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 6.5 x 1.25 x 9.5 inches |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers of US history and the history of communications
- People interested in surveillance, privacy, and civil-liberties debates
- Students exploring the relationship between government, business, and electronic monitoring
Less suited to
- Readers looking for a practical guide to wiretapping technology or current legal advice
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
69% 69% - 4 stars
21% 21% - 3 stars
5% 5% - 2 stars
0% 0% - 1 star
5% 5%
Aggregate customer ratings lean positive, but the sample is limited and does not include review text here. That gives only a broad impression of reception, not evidence about particular strengths or criticisms. Readers should judge the book by its stated historical scope and subject matter.
Frequently asked questions
What is The Listeners about?
It traces the history of wiretapping and electronic eavesdropping in the United States, including its use by government, law enforcement, and private businesses.
Does the book focus only on modern surveillance?
No. The description begins with Civil War-era telegraph interception and follows developments through later government surveillance programs and privacy debates.
How long is the listed print edition?
The listing gives a print length of 368 pages.
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